Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Certification
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
Generic

Avinash Bhatnagar

Sustainability Leader - Textile Technology
Saint Paul,MN

Summary

Global Innovation Leader with extensive experience in engineering and business development across diverse markets including the U.S., Kenya, India, and Thailand. Proven track record of delivering disruptive innovations in materials and circular design strategies that align with sustainability goals. Expertise in building scalable process capabilities within vendor ecosystems, enhancing operational excellence from concept to execution. Recognized for leading global teams with a focus on trust, performance, and inclusive culture, while driving strategic initiatives in emerging innovation spaces.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Principal Fabric Engineer

Target
Minneapolis, MN
04.2022 - Current
  • Led Circular Design Project to ensure compliance with EPR regulations.
  • Defined capabilities and development processes for SOFT HOME products, enhancing product development standards.
  • Executed multiple projects to establish industry-leading practices in product development.

Sr Fabric Engineer

Target
Minneapolis, MN
04.2016 - 04.2022
  • Supported TGT-owned A&A brands in developing fabric technical specifications aligned with pricing strategies and quality standards.
  • Managed technical approval processes with suppliers and color teams, ensuring accurate virtual review submissions.
  • Collaborated with design, color, QA, and Sourcing teams for timely in-cycle developments.
  • Expanded network with Fiber to Finishing Materials supply chain to drive innovation and technology advancements.
  • Monitored seasonal industry trends in partnership with Trend and Design teams.
  • Resolved guest inquiries and technical issues related to quality and performance standards.
  • Compiled and maintained online libraries of standardized fabric menus and specifications.
  • Maintained expertise in government regulations and safety protocols as a subject matter expert for textiles.

VP of Manufacturing

Faribault Woolen Mill
, US
07.2011 - 02.2016
  • Contributed to revival of mill in 2011 as part of initial executive team.
  • Led hiring initiative, rejuvenating departments from fiber to finished products in Soft Home category.
  • Executed strategic production planning and materials management for profit center.
  • Scheduled processes to meet sales goals for big box retailers and e-commerce channels.
  • Coordinated government orders for US Military product supply while ensuring compliance with standards.
  • Provided strategic insights on projections based on industry trends and historical sales data.
  • Researched and tested processing of various fibers, including Ingeo and Recycled Cotton.
  • Developed sustainable fabric, enhancing revenue stream for existing durable product line.

VP of Manufacturing

Faribault Woolen
, US
02.2003 - 12.2008
  • In-charge of plant production activity, scheduling, process rationalization
  • Establish quality and cost control parameters and adherence
  • Coordination with Sales & Marketing team for on time delivery of orders
  • Development of shades by lab dips on wool and acrylic using acid and reactive dyes, new finishes and preparing samples for customer approval.

General Manager

Thika Cloth Mills Ltd
Nairobi, Kenya
09.1988 - 09.1989
  • Oversaw strategic planning as Profit Center Head, ensuring accountability for P&L management.
  • Implemented production planning to optimize capacity utilization and standardize processes.
  • Sourced raw materials from local and international vendors to ensure consistent supply.
  • Developed long-term vendor relationships to strengthen supply chain reliability.
  • Analyzed market trends to guide business decisions, including new product and pricing strategies.
  • Conducted market research post-liberalization to realign product offerings with consumer preferences in Kenya.
  • Expanded market presence across East & South Africa and Europe.
  • Represented textile manufacturers on Export Promotion Council of Kenya to influence policy frameworks.

Mill Manager

Thika Cloth Mills LTD
Nairobi, Kenya
09.1988 - 09.1989

Controlled operations of Spinning-Ring, Open End, Weaving, and Fabric Processing departments.

  • Achieved monthly production targets while adhering to quality and safety standards.
  • Oversaw stock management, yarn processing, and continuous and batch dyeing activities.

Weaving Manager

Thika Cloth Mills Ltd
Thika, Kenya
02.1986 - 09.1988
  • Design Development and Oversight of Weaving Section

Education

Bachelor Of Textile Technology - Textile Technology

M.S. University Of Baroda
Baroda

Certification

  • Target Development Programs: ADP (2020), Connect+ (2021), L7 Development Track (2023–24)
  • Executive Education: Innovation & Strategy – Harvard Business School
  • Authentic Leadership – Harvard Business School
  • Finance for Non-Finance Managers – KPMG
  • Diploma in Neuro Linguistic Programming – American Board of NLP (2024)

Accomplishments

FELLOWSHIP:

Awarded Fellow of Textile Institute (UK) entitled to practice as Chartered Member of The Textile Institute.

APPROVED PATENTS:

1. Test method for evaluating textile fabric performance https://patents.google.com/patent/US11619573B2/en?inventor=Avinash+BHATNAGAR

2. Ring spun yarn and method https://patents.google.com/patent/US11767618B2/en?inventor=Avinash+BHATNAGAR&oq=inventor

3. Fabric softness design and construction method

US11625507B2 - Fabric softness design and construction method - Google Patents

4. Sustainable fabric preparation process for dyeing with botanical (plant) dyes

US20230010719A1 - Sustainable fabric preparation process for dyeing with botanical (plant) dyes - Google Patents

PENDING:

Two patents - Towel Yarn Manufacturing and Second Proprietery Product.

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Principal Fabric Engineer

Target
04.2022 - Current

Sr Fabric Engineer

Target
04.2016 - 04.2022

VP of Manufacturing

Faribault Woolen Mill
07.2011 - 02.2016

VP of Manufacturing

Faribault Woolen
02.2003 - 12.2008

General Manager

Thika Cloth Mills Ltd
09.1988 - 09.1989

Mill Manager

Thika Cloth Mills LTD
09.1988 - 09.1989

Weaving Manager

Thika Cloth Mills Ltd
02.1986 - 09.1988

Bachelor Of Textile Technology - Textile Technology

M.S. University Of Baroda
Avinash BhatnagarSustainability Leader - Textile Technology